Widener University

What you'll study

The civil engineering curriculum combines core engineering fundamentals with specialised courses and laboratory work. Early years emphasise mathematics, physics, chemistry and introductory engineering topics to build analytical and problem‑solving skills. Core civil engineering subjects typically include statics and dynamics, mechanics of materials, structural analysis and design, fluid mechanics and hydraulics, geotechnical engineering, transportation engineering, and environmental and water resources engineering.

Laboratory work and computer modelling are integrated throughout the programme, with students using materials testing, structural testing and hydraulics laboratories, CAD and finite element software, and geographic information systems. The programme culminates in a multidisciplinary senior capstone design project, where students work in teams to solve a realistic engineering problem and prepare professional reports and presentations.

• Foundation and maths: calculus, differential equations, linear algebra
• Core engineering: statics and dynamics, mechanics of materials, thermodynamics
• Civil-specific: structural analysis and design, reinforced concrete and steel design, geotechnical engineering, transportation engineering, hydraulics and hydrology, environmental engineering
• Computing and labs: CAD, structural analysis software, materials testing, hydraulics and soil testing
• Design project: senior capstone with team design, documentation and presentation

Programme structure

The degree is structured to provide progressively more advanced technical coursework and design experience, with opportunities for elective courses in areas such as construction management, sustainable design, seismic design, or coastal engineering. Widener encourages participation in internships, cooperative education, and undergraduate research to gain practical experience alongside academic study.

Entry requirements

Applicants should have a high school diploma or equivalent with a strong background in mathematics (including algebra, geometry and preferably precalculus or calculus) and physics. Typical competitive applicants present high grades in maths and science courses. Widener considers the whole application, including transcripts, recommendation letters and personal statements.

Standardised tests may be optional or considered as part of a holistic review; check Widener's admissions guidance for current practice. International applicants must demonstrate equivalent academic preparation and provide evidence of English language proficiency through recognised tests or approved alternatives if their prior education was not in English.

Transfer applicants should have completed introductory calculus and physics and will typically need to provide college transcripts for transfer credit evaluation. Prospective students with practical experience are encouraged to highlight internships, technical projects or related extracurricular activities.

Career prospects

Graduates enter a wide range of careers across the public and private sectors. Common early-career roles include junior structural engineer, transportation engineer, geotechnical engineer, water resources engineer, environmental consultant, and construction project engineer. With experience and appropriate licensure, graduates can advance to senior design positions, project management and specialised consulting.

The programme prepares students for the professional engineering licensure pathway (Engineer-in-Training and Professional Engineer), and provides a foundation for graduate study in civil engineering and related fields. Local and regional industry ties, internships and co-op experiences help students build networks with consulting firms, contractors, municipal agencies and utilities.

Why study at Widener University

Widener offers a personalised learning environment with relatively small class sizes and direct access to faculty, many of whom have professional engineering experience. The civil engineering curriculum is professionally oriented and emphasises hands-on laboratory work, computing skills and team design projects.

The university supports practical experience through internship and cooperative education opportunities and maintains relationships with engineering employers in the Philadelphia metropolitan area and beyond. Facilities for civil engineering students include materials and structural testing labs, hydraulics and soils labs and computing resources for design and analysis. These features, combined with a capstone design experience, equip students with the technical skills and professional practice exposure needed for entry to the engineering profession.